FL H0697

Impact fees must be based on the most recent and localized data and calculated to address actual infrastructure needs generated by new development.

Local governments must provide separate accounting for impact fee collections and expenditures, with administrative charges limited to actual costs.

Notice of 90 days must be provided before imposing a new or increased impact fee, though decreases or eliminations do not require advance notice.

In legal challenges to impact fees, the government bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of evidence that the fee meets state legal requirements, with courts prohibited from using deferential standards.

Detailed specific area plan applications must be reviewed for completeness within 30 days, with approval or denial required within 90 days of complete submission, and decisions must include written findings.

The act takes effect July 1, 2018.